Top 7 Mid Century Modern Design Trends for 2013

With the beginning of each new year, there’s something exciting about the emergence of fun new design trends. Although lovers of true mid century modern decor hold fast to the authentic, there is a shift in our culture that seeks to incorporate the nostalgia and beauty of the period. I know, I know. Imitation, fake, and knock-offs abound, but it’s one way for people to experience the essence of the period without trudging from store to store trying to find what you and I know to be the “real stuff.” (Click the photo below to navigate right and left.)

2013 Design Trends to Watch For:

1. New Mid Century Modern Inspired Furniture

More companies will wise up to the fact that consumers want the form and style of mid century modern furniture - but manufactured today! One example of this is Thrive Furniture and Atomic Living Design.
photo credit: Thrive Furniture

2. Miniature Artwork for the Home

With many of us living in smaller homes and apartments, space comes at a premium. Lisa Swerling's Glass Cathedrals are the perfect addition to a small space. This ongoing series of shadow box wall sculptures contain brilliant tiny worlds inhabited by miniature people.
photo credit: Lisa Swerling

3. Pop-Up Events Featuring Local Designers

Think craft fair + retro inspired hipsters. We'll start seeing more and more one-day events and multi-week pop-up shops that feature mid century modern home accessories, furniture, and vintage inspired clothing. Sonja Rasula and the UNIQUE team are now hosting three such events in LA, NYC, and San Francisco, and we don't anticipate that she'll be the only one.
photo credit: mrkate.com

4. Resurgence of Interior Plants

To add life to our concrete-encircled, technology-infused homes, we'll begin to see interior plants featured in central ways. Combine the health benefits and design possibilities, and companies like Vessel should enjoy the resurgence.
photo credit: Vessel

5. A Typewriter Renaissance

Whenever our culture sways heavily in one direction, there will always be a group that chooses to venture in the opposite. Consider the ubiquity of high-tech gadgets, and it's no wonder that typewriters are on the rebound. Check out this coverage by CBS Sunday Morning, a recent documentary, classroom projects, and even type-ins!
photo credit: phillytyper.com

6. Classy Vintage Shops Featuring Mid Century Modern Decor

Step into most antique shops, and you'll be overwhelmed by clutter and the smell of your dead grandma's house. A new class of vintage stores are emerging that are willing to curate the finest wares and create a customer-friendly retail atmosphere.
photo credit: Scout Living

7. Retro Gifts for the People In Your Life Who Have Absolutely Everything

Whether it's your boss or distant uncle, it seems like there's a birthday or special occasion almost every month. Buying a memorable gift is an artform, and this year, we'll see more retro and mid century modern inspired gifts given than ever before.
photo credit: midcenturymodern.com